MoT failure because rear passenger door won't open

My 2009 Audi A3 Sportback has failed its MoT due to the nearside rear passenger door intermittently not opening from the outside. First question is, is this a legitimate reason for MoT failure when the door opens from the inside okay? Secondly, they said I needed a new lock at £220 - can they know this from their 'diagnostics' test? Surely it could just be an electrical fault or bad connection?

Asked on 25 February 2016 by Carolyn

Answered by Honest John

Yes, it is a failure because it could prevent an injured passenger being rescued from the car in the event of a crash. But you're lucky that the door still opens from the inside because that means the door trim can be removed and the real reason for the problem can be traced. May just be a sticking lock mechanism or servo that can be cured by driving out any moisture in it with WD40.

Tags: mot technical issues

Similar questions

Engine warning light is on - will my car fail the MoT?

The engine warning light on my 2002 Toyota Rav4 came on a while back. I had this diagnosed and it's due to the catalytic converter. The garage is saying that MoT checks do not include engine lights in...

How do I fix the intermittent display fault in my 2004 Ford Focus?

My Ford Focus 1.6 has done 88,000 miles. It kept showing an intermittent display fault with the odometer, speedometer, fuel gauge and temperature gauge all not working. Now none of these have worked at...

MoT failure over suspension

I'm thinking of buying a used Audi A5; however, DVLA records show that the car failed a recent MoT due to: -Nearside front Front suspension has excessive play in a lower suspension ball joint front joint...

Related models

Audi A3 Sportback (2004 - 2012)

Quality feel from behind the wheel. More practical and spacious than standard A3. Impressive choice of engines including excellent TFSI turbocharged petrols.